WOKINGHAM.Today has been hearing from friends, neighbours and the church family of Reg Clifton, wishing to pay their respects and share their memories of him.
David Ruddock, church warden at St Paul’s Church, Wokingham, said: “I was always struck by his well-dressed appearance, his willingness to speak his mind, his generosity of spirit and his concern for others.”
Aged 90, Reg, was reported missing on Thursday, September 26, and a week later his body was found in the Emm Brook following searches in the Woosehill area.
He is fondly remembered by those who knew him.
“We prayed for him on the Sunday after his disappearance,” continued Mr Ruddock, “and we continue to pray for his family.”
Doreen, one of Reg’s neighbours and a member of Woosehill Church, part of St Paul’s parish, said: “He was very gentlemanly and always very nice to talk to.
“I remember he came round to see if he could be of any help when we all had an electricity fault.”
Reg’s willingness to help others is mentioned by others, including Louise Cole, St Paul’s parish administrator
She said: “He cared about the local community and tried to get the people who could do something about things to actually do something.”
Another neighbour, Mandy, agreed: “We are so sad about Reg – our family knew him well for a number of years.
“We have happy memories of a smartly dressed gentleman, often seen walking out and about, leading a full and busy life.
“He was thoughtful, kind and chatty, and a caring neighbour.
“He would pop round for a chat and was interested in local and national happenings, offering his informed views.
“He was a man of integrity and cared deeply about doing right for others.
“Reg adored cats and all ours were drawn to him, particularly our tabby Smudge who spent many happy years visiting Reg and keeping him company.
“We hope that Reg’s cat Mouse finds a good new home as we think he is missing him, and Reg would have been concerned for his welfare.
“Reg really did epitomise the meaning of being a good neighbour.”
Cara Smart, St Paul’s curate said: “Reg was a familiar figure around Wokingham, and it was a pleasure getting to know him a little more this year.
“He enjoyed the music and space of St Paul’s, and especially appreciated choral evensong and the church’s organ recitals.
“Reg was an interesting man, who shared his experiences of being in the RAF, and he cared deeply about his local community.
“His disappearance and death shocked many people, and he has been surrounded by our prayers, as are his family now.
“Reg, may you rest in the eternal peace and love of God, and rise with the saints in glory.”
A photo of Reg has been placed in St Paul’s Church so that people can step inside to pray and light a candle for him if they wish.
